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Module Reviews
First-Year Modules
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Computational Biology was a fantastic module and a great way to get a peak behind the curtain on how some of the computational tools work and how they are being used. This module starts broad with giving an understanding of biological scale and the principles behind databases and searching. It then delves into the specifics of diverse regions of the field. We look at phylogenetics, structural biology and a host of -omics fields. Finally, we finish with an overview of system approaches and a brief review of programming. The in-module assessment is the most engaging part of the module where, after being exposure to the databases and tools, you get to apply your knowledge. Randomly allocated with a given nucleotide sequence, you get to research as much as you can, using the computational tools at your disposal to comprise a brief report of where this sequence has evolved from and what it most likely is used for. It is a very interesting and diverse project that can take many avenues to apply skills and troubleshoot issues. Additionally, this project and module takes place in term 1 which means achieving a high mark will easily alleviate pressure when it comes to the exam. Personally I had great success in this project and found it easy to get high marks meaning that by the time the exam rolled around, passing meant I would receive a first.At some points, the module can feel a tad dull and lectures were difficult to fully engage with. However, it’s key to note that the quantitative tools reviewed in this module are commonplace for any type of research today so understanding them, even at a surface level, can only enhance progression towards a career in biology. 8/10-Sophie, 2nd Year Biological Sciences
In my personal experience, this module was the hardest of my first year due to the breadth of knowledge you must pick up quickly to apply to whatever might be thrown at you. As the name suggests, this module is split into 2 parts, each with their own challenges. (1) Zoology: this portion is the hardest and spans 14 highly challenging lectures that are very hard to grasp with their quick, seemingly sporadic delivery. Starting at an understanding of phylogenetics, it quickly delves into the beginnings of life from early metazoans and quickly moves through time, delivery the mechanistic understanding, major evolutionary events, critical genes and most of the all the broad phylogenetic groupings throughout history (with challenging and non-intuitive naming). We move through phylogenetics, collecting and building up the blocks of how sponges, molluscs, arthropods insects, vertebrates, fish, amphibia, reptiles, birds, mammals and eventually humans and so much more came to be, how they work, how they differ. The knowledge required to give you your best chance at the knowledge is more than what can be grasped in only the lectures and high amounts of googlign and time are required to do your best. Point to note: when you get to reviewing the building blocks of the jaw, listen in and listen hard. (2) Plant Science: here we shift gears and the module is easier to grasp but still not to underestimate as it still accounts for 50% of this module. We start with delving into the the major events that assisted in the evolution of plants and how different plants are crucially distinct. Then it moves into the anatomy of plants in their development, both vegetative and reproductive. Additionally, we look at the state of historical, current and future study, research and application of plant technology. The best way to achieve a high mark is to throw yourself deep into this module and more than likely, further research is needed to give you the best understanding. At it’s core the content gives you great context to the functional and structural building blocks of all organisms and gives you lots of ‘fun’ facts. 5/10-Liam 2nd Year Biological Sciences
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